Part of Speech

noun

Pronunciation

/ˌkeɪ.pəˈbɪl.ə.ti/

Definitions

• noun: The ability or power to do something.
• noun: A particular skill or competence in a specific area.
• noun: The capacity of an individual or thing to perform or produce effectively.

Usage Examples

• "She demonstrated her capability in managing the project efficiently."
• "The company's capability to innovate has kept it ahead of competitors."
• "He has the capability to lead and inspire his team through challenges."

Etymology

From the Latin word "capabilitas," derived from "capabilis," meaning "able to be contained or able to do." The term evolved into Middle English as "capabilite" in the late 14th century, before becoming modern "capability."

Synonyms

• Ability
• Competence
• Capacity
• Proficiency
• Skill
• Talent
• Power
• Potential

Antonyms

• Inability
• Incompetence
• Incapacity
• Helplessness
• Impotence

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In some regions, "capability" is pronounced with a softer "a" sound: /kəˈbɪləti/.
• In British English, the stress is often on the second syllable, with the "b" pronounced more sharply: /ˈkeɪpəˌbɪlɪti/.

Historical Usage

The word "capability" has been used since the 16th century in English. Initially, it referred to the inherent quality or capacity of something, but its usage evolved to describe a person’s skills and potential in various domains, including work, military, and social settings.

Cultural Nuances

In some cultures, the term "capability" is often associated with an individual's social or economic potential. For instance, in corporate settings, the capability of an employee may directly correlate with their perceived value within the organization. In contrast, some indigenous cultures emphasize community-based capabilities, focusing on collective action and mutual support.

More Information

"Capability" has broad usage in academic, professional, and everyday contexts. It is central to discussions about personal growth, professional development, and technological advancements. As such, understanding and enhancing one’s capabilities can be an important factor in achieving success in various fields.